If you plan on preparing a 53 Hatteras for sale... let's add up the Pizzaz's daddy numbers.
$2,000 to wax and detail the exterior. $500 to haul and block for hull waxing. While you're there, you can add $2,000 more for a fresh coat of bottom paint. $2,000 more for a fresh coat of varnish on the handrails and exterior brightwork. $2,000 more to steam clean, paint and detail the engine room. $6,000 more for new high end carpet.
If you fix all the potential survey items ahead of time, all you need to do is maintain what's there until a buyer falls in love...
Whether it's done professionally or by you, it's about curb appeal. A majority of sellers fail to prepare or maintain their boats for showing.